Florida Senate President Gardiner endorses Lopez-Cantera for U.S. Senate

Florida Senate President Gardiner endorses Lopez-Cantera for U.S. Senate

State Senate President Andy Gardiner, R-Orlando, is the latest Florida legislator to endorse Lt. Gov. Carlos Lopez-Cantera for U.S. Senate.

The endorsement comes after last week's backing of Lopez-Cantera by Florida House Speaker Steve Crisafulli, R-Merritt Island, as well as 42 other state legislators.ADVERTISING

“In Florida, Carlos has been a leader in limiting government’s influence into the lives of everyday Floridians and the result has created less taxes, less regulation, and more freedom for citizens to achieve economic independence," Gardiner said in a statement.

“I am proud to support Carlos, and I look forward to working to ensure he is our next U.S. Senator from Florida."

Lopez-Cantera is facing several candidates for the nomination, including U.S. Rep. David Jolly, U.S. Rep Ron DeSantis, developer Carlos Beruff and Orlando businessman Todd Wilcox.

“I am honored and humbled to receive the support of Senate President Andy Gardiner," Lopez-Cantera said.

"As Andy and I continue to work together on this campaign, I appreciate his efforts as we send the message to Washington that it is time for a Florida Republican in the U.S. Senate."

CNN also reported last week that U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, who is leaving the seat at the end of 2016, plans to endorse Lopez-Cantera very soon.